Why does Pakistan celebrate Independence Day on August 14?

Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the first Governor General of Pakistan told his countrymen, “It is with feelings of greatest happiness and emotion that I send you my greetings.

Why does Pakistan celebrate its Independence Day on August 14? In 1947, 15 August happened to be the Jummat-ul-Wida, the last Friday of the holy month of Ramzan, and Jinnah asked all Muslims across the world to come together at mosques and pray and seek His guidance to make Pakistan a great state.

In 1948, Pakistan changed the day of its independence, because it coincided with the 27th day of the Holy month of Ramadan.

Pakistan wanted an identity distinct from India, which led to the change. Even the India Independence Act of 1947 states that 15 August was the date when the two independent dominions were formed. The postage stamps of Pakistan released in July 1948 commemorating the day also mentioned 15 August 1947 as its Independence Day.

Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the first Governor General of Pakistan told his countrymen, "It is with feelings of greatest happiness and emotion that I send you my greetings. August 15 is the birthday of the independent and sovereign State of Pakistan. It marks the fulfillment of the destiny of the Muslim nation which made great sacrifices in the past few years to have its homeland," he had said.

OneIndia News